MN SF2557

Establishes new permitting requirements under Minnesota Statutes chapter 93 for mining operations on sulfide ore bodies containing net acid generating potential.

Prohibits the Commissioner of Natural Resources from issuing a mining permit for sulfide ore bodies unless the applicant demonstrates either an existing operation or a closed operation has operated for at least 10 years without pollution of groundwater or surface water from acid drainage or heavy metal release.

Excludes mining operations listed on the federal national priorities list (Superfund sites) and operations where the operator is no longer in business with no liable successors from being used as evidence to satisfy permit requirements.

Requires the Commissioner to verify applicant information with relevant groundwater and surface water monitoring data to confirm the referenced mining operation has not caused significant environmental pollution from acid drainage or heavy metal release.

Defines "pollution" as degradation resulting in an environmental law violation as determined through administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings, including orders requiring corrective action or stipulated penalties.